Basilectal Features of Bahamian Creole English

Abstract

Although Bahamian Dialect appears to be a dialect of English, it is actually more a Creole, though it has de-Creolized over the years. Its overall grammar is systematically different from that of Standard English and yet the two share many of the same features. This serves to enhance the illusion that the two are different dialects of the same language. All of this, two distinct systems masquerading as one, presents particular problems to young students faced with learning to read and write in Standard English, when in fact, they speak a different language. It also presents specific challenges to teachers in their approach to the language arts. They must cope with interference problems arising from their students' mother tongue (Bahamian dialect) while they are acquiring the school language (Standard Bahamian English). A clear and accessible description of the grammar of Bahamian Dialect is needed to assist teachers in their task and to facilitate students in their mastering of the Standard. The ultimate goal is to provide not only a description but a deeper appreciation and even celebration of Bahamian Dialect.